Month: June 2018

How Radio-controlled Cars Work

Radio-controlled cars, just as their name suggests, are cars that are controlled by radio waves. The radio waves are sent from the remote which operates the car to the cars. The mechanism of action of radio-controlled cars is similar to that of other radio-controlled toys. Several components which are common to all remote-controlled toys control the mechanics of radio-controlled cars. This article explains the basic processes involved in the movement of a radio-controlled car, and how the different components that make up the car effect these processes.

Every radio-controlled car is made up of four essential components. The components of a radio-controlled car include the transmitter, the motors, the power source and the receiver. These components coordinated the actions of every radio-controlled car.

The transmitter

The transmitter of a radio-controlled car works by sending signals to another component of an RC car known as the receiver. Thus, the transmitter is the component of an RC car that sends the radio waves to the car. The transmitter of an RC car is an essential part, as, without it, signals cannot be sent to the car. The transmitter is thus the origin of the radio waves.

Remote-controlled and radio-controlled cars differ in the way their transmitters are built. Radio-controlled cars send signals without a wire connection, while remote-controlled cars need wire connection. The radio waves of different transmitters work at different frequencies. The most common frequencies are 27 and 49 MHz, although some RC cars work with frequencies of 72 and 75 MHz. Transmitters and the control of the car make up the handheld device that comes with most RC cars. The specific frequencies of RC cars ensure that the car picks up only the assigned frequency of the car.

The transmitters of RC cars are typically powered by a 9-volt battery. Some RC cars are powered by small internal combustion engines. The transmitters of RC cars may be single-controlled or full-controlled. The signals of single-function controller cars are differentiated in two ways, while the signals of full-function controllers are differentiated in about six ways according to different pulses.

The motor

Signals sent by the receiver are effected by the integrated circuit which controls the motors of the car. For full-function controllers, the signals sent to the IC determine the motor which is turned on and the action which the car takes.

The receiver

The receiver is the component of the car to which the radio waves are sent. The signal sent by the transmitter is received by the antennae of the receiver. The receiver also has inductors and a component that oscillates at specific frequencies, the frequency of the transmitter.

The circuit board of an RC car is another of its basic components. The circuit board receives the electrical pulses and is the basic electrical component of RC cars.

Basically, this is how an RC car works. The transmitter sends the signals which are received by the receiver. The receiver interacts with the circuit board which translates the signals that drive the motors.

What to consider when choosing the engine for your radio-controlled car

The engine of an RC car is one of its most important components as it determines the efficiency of the car and how much fun one would have with it. It is thus important to properly consider the features of the engine of a car before committing to buying it. Several features make an engine the best for a particular RC car. This article highlights the different specifications of an RC car engine which one should look out for before buying it.

Typically, certain engines are prescribed by the manufactures of the RC kit. The prescribed engines are not always the best engines in the market, and it is important to know how to compare the different features that make the best engine. When one is armed with pieces of information that determine the suitability of an engine for a car, they could look out for better engines than those recommended by the manufacturers.

Brushed and brushless motors

Two types of engine motors exist: the brushed and brushless motors. These motors differ in their functionality and capacity. Although there are still several brushed motors on the market, brushless motors are more efficient and less prone to wear and tear. Brushless motors are typically known to serve users better.

Other parameters to consider

Voltage constant

The voltage constant is another parameter to consider when getting an engine for an RC car, as it is a measure of the RPM produced by the engines for the each of the applied voltage. Thus the voltage constant multiplied by the number of volts gives the RPM. Engines with smaller voltage constants are known to be more efficient.

No current load

No current loads are a measure of the amount of current an engine an RC car needs to spin without propping. The higher the no current load, the higher the current needed to prop the car.

Power and current

The power and current of a motor will determine its prop as well as its efficiency. To ensure that an engine is the best for a particular RC car, it is important to know the amount of current it will require to function maximally without overheating.

Torque constant

The ideal torque constant varies for inrunner and outrunner RC cars. For outrunner cars, engines with larger torques which means smaller voltage constants are ideal. Inrunner cars, however, work best with engines that have smaller torques and larger voltage constants.

Terminal resistance

Typically, engines with higher terminal resistance are less efficient than motors with lower terminal resistance. The unit of terminal resistance of the motor of an engine is ohms, and it is important to ensure that the terminal resistance of a motor is low for the highest efficiency.

The engine of an RC car will determine its efficiency. Ensure that the specs of an engine are best fitting for a car, even if the engine is recommended by the manufacturer.

Maintenance tips for RC cars and trucks

Just as with other types of vehicles, RC cars and trucks require proper maintenance for them to function optimally. With an RC car is tended consistently with a lot of care, its lifespan will be enhanced, and the vehicle will serve its user to its full capacity.

It is important to follow general and specific maintenance rules for RC cars and trucks. These rules have been developed around the different components of RC cars and trucks to ensure their smooth running. Here are some maintenance tips for RC cars and trucks.

Keep away from water

As friendly as water could be to several surfaces, it is not very friendly with the surfaces of RC cars and trucks. RC cars and trucks are sometimes painted with water-soluble paints. Also, some components of RC cars and trucks could corrode on continuous exposure to water. Thus, it is important to keep RC vehicles away from water as much as possible. Although cleaning the tires and other resistant parts of the vehicle with a damp cloth is allowed, it is important to watch the exposure of other parts of the vehicle to water. Never attempt to drench an RC car or truck.

Ball and gear differentials maintenance

The ball and gear differentials of a radio-controlled car or truck are one of the components that require proper maintenance. The maintenance of the ball and gear differentials could be different forms such as disassembling and checking if their structures are in the best form, degreasing the surface of the differentials and applying lubrication grease to ensure proper movement of the differentials.

Driveshaft maintenance

The driveshaft of an RC car and truck determines the power at which the wheel will function. Thus, the maintenance of the driveshaft is necessary for the increased efficiency of the car or truck. Ways of properly maintaining the driveshaft include degreasing to remove clogs, greasing to ensure efficiency and improved performance.

Cleaning and lubricating the driveshaft is another important maintenance tip, especially for driveshafts.

Pin maintenance

When the pin of an RC car or truck is distorted in any way, its efficiency and functionality are reduced. Bent pins do not function properly and would only be noticed when components of the RC cars and trucks are disassembled.

When bent pins are found, it is important to replace them with new pins as bent pins cannot be repaired. A bent pin can be noted when one removes the pin and rolls it on a flat, smooth surface. Uneven movements give away bent pins.

Simple cleaning of RC cars and trucks after use is also important for enhancing their efficiency. It is also important to check oil and re-oil nitro and gas powered RC cars after use. Overall, it is important to take proper care of one’s RC car or truck for maximum efficiency and productivity.

Advantages and disadvantages of radio-controlled cars

Radio-controlled cars are great items both for sports and relaxing moments. Radio-controlled cars are also owned by a range of persons, from adults who love the tech and have a collection of RC toys to kids who love to play with RC toys. RC cars are great racing cars for hobbyists. This article highlights both some of the best and worst features of the different types of radio-controlled cars that are common in the US.

Types of radio-controlled cars

Generally, there are two types of radio-controlled cars according to the type of engine of the car. The two types of electric cars are nitro-powered cars and electric cars. RC cars that are powered by electrical energy could be either brushless or brushed engines. A significant proportion of the electric cars are powered by brushless motors. This article covers the different advantages and disadvantages of the different types of RC cars which are nitro RC cars, electric cars and brushless electric cars. The advantages and disadvantages of RC cars as recreational items are also considered in this article. With the article, one should be able to weigh the pros and cons of the different types of RC cars. One would also be able to determine the overall benefits of RC cars as recreational items.

Pros of nitro-powered RC cars

One of the biggest pros of nitro-powered RC cars is the fact that they produce the most real form of smoke and sound of the different types of RC cars. Also, the fact that one can easily top up the fuel supply of nitro-powered cars as they go is also notable. Since nitro-powered cars produce a very real experience, one could also pick up mechanical skills when they carry out routine maintenance on their nitro-powered vehicles. The speed of nitro-powered RC cars is also notable, as they could be faster than some brushed, and even brushless electric RC cars. The water-resistance feature of nitro-powered cars is also notable.

Cons of nitro-powered RC cars

The cons of nitro-powered RC cars are related to their different features which could make them appealing to certain users. For example, the noise and smoke which makes nitro-powered cars more appealing to certain users may discourage other users. Because of the smoke nitro-powered cars produce, they may also be restricted to outdoor use. It is also important to note that nitro-powered cars require a lot more maintenance than the other types of RC cars. One would also need a constant supply of nitro fuel. One may also need to consider the fact some of the available nitro-powered cars cannot be reversed when getting them.

Pros of electric cars

There are several pros of RC cars that are powered by electricity. One of the notable pros of electric RC cars is the reduced noise and fumes which it produces. One can easily use electric RC cars in their homes and other indoor environments without creating a lot of disturbance.

The reverse feature of electric RC cars is also very functional, and electric cars provide a lot of speed.

Cons of electric cars

Because electric cars are powered by batteries, the power source may not be very stable, as batteries can run out. When batteries run out, there are usually no other sources of power except one has extra batteries or a charger that can charge the battery very fast.

Another notable con of electric cars is the fact that they could be slow, especially those of them with brushed motors. An electric car also does not have as much protection against water as nitro-powered cars and are more prone to water damage.

Pros of brushless RC cars

In the US and other parts of the world, brushless electric cars are becoming more common and affordable. Brushless electric cars are a variant of electric cars, and they include several features on their motors which include loss of commutator, the permanent magnet and the Electronic Speed Control.

Pros of brushless electric RC cars

Brushless electric cars are faster and more efficient than their brushed counterparts, and sometimes nitro-powered racing cars as they have a high weight-to-power ratio. The speed of brushless cars is also notable. The battery of brushless electric cars also lasts for longer periods so one is sure of increased run times with brushless electric cars.

It is also noteworthy that brushless electric cars are known to have very long lifespans. Since brushless electric RC cars also do not make a lot of noise and exude a lot of smoke, they are perfect for both indoor and outdoor uses.

Also, brushless electric RC cars have an enhanced level of protection against water and dirt. The fact that brushless electric RC cars can be easily maintained is an indicator of their enhanced lifespan as proper maintenance increased the longevity of a vehicle.

Cons of brushless electric RC cars

Even with all the exciting features of brushless racing cars, some coins have also been associated with their use.

The cons of brushless electric racing cars include the high price tags that come with them. Brushless electric cars employ some of the newest technology in the world of racing cars and thus the high price tags associated with getting them.

Brushless cars may also be a bit complicated to handle by specific users such as young children that are below 10.

There are several benefits of RC cars for both children and adults. RC cars help with coordination, proper development of senses for children, and enhanced motor skills for both children and adults. These benefits are apart from the fun and relaxation that comes with an RC car.

One major con of RC cars is the fact that they are not cost-effective. Even when one intends to get the toy grade, they may also be pricey.